The Korea Disease Control Agency (KDCA) has released a comprehensive health advisory for travelers visiting Saudi Arabia during the Hajj pilgrimage, which takes place from May 25 to May 30, 2026. The advisory aims to prevent the spread of Middle East Respiratory Syndrome (MERS) and meningococcal disease among pilgrims and visitors. Hajj is a major religious event, attracting millions from over 180 countries, resulting in crowded conditions that heighten infection risks. KDCA emphasizes the importance of pre-travel vaccination, adherence to infection prevention guidelines, and prompt reporting of symptoms upon return.
The policy primarily affects Hajj participants and travelers to Saudi Arabia and other Middle Eastern countries designated as MERS surveillance regions. Key recommendations include avoiding contact with camels, practicing frequent handwashing, wearing masks in crowded areas, and refraining from unnecessary visits to medical facilities. Travelers are urged to check recommended vaccinations, such as the meningococcal vaccine, at least ten days before departure. Upon arrival in Korea, enhanced screening and community surveillance are implemented, with information provided in six languages.
Implementation involves coordination between KDCA, the Korea Muslim Federation, and pilgrimage agencies to educate travelers and distribute multilingual guidance. Incheon Airport conducts intensified quarantine for returning pilgrims, including epidemiological investigations for symptomatic individuals. KDCA sends preventive SMS alerts to travelers from 13 Middle Eastern countries and requires health status declarations via Q-CODE or questionnaires. MERS cases in Saudi Arabia have fluctuated in recent years, with no reported cases as of March 2026, while meningococcal disease cases linked to Hajj were reported in 2025.
Frequently asked questions include: What should travelers do if they develop fever or respiratory symptoms within 14 days of returning from the Middle East? They should immediately report to the KDCA call center at 1339. Is meningococcal vaccination mandatory for Hajj? It is strongly recommended to receive the vaccine at least ten days before departure. What are the main infection prevention practices? These include proper handwashing, mask usage, avoiding contact with symptomatic individuals, and following cough etiquette.
Metaqsol opinion: The KDCA’s advisory demonstrates a proactive and multi-layered approach to infection prevention during the Hajj pilgrimage. By integrating vaccination recommendations, multilingual education, and enhanced quarantine procedures, the policy addresses both individual and community risks. The focus on rapid symptom reporting and coordination with travel agencies strengthens early detection and response. These actions are grounded in recent case data and international best practices, offering effective protection for travelers and the public.